Work-study comes in two contract types: the apprenticeship contract and the professionalisation contract. They share similarities, but follow different logics. Here is how to choose.
In summary: apprenticeship targets a diploma and is aimed mainly at young people (initial training); professionalisation targets a qualification and also suits adults and career changers (continuing education). For a first diploma, apprenticeship is often the natural choice; for rapid upskilling, the professionalisation contract is the right fit.
For the full details of each contract (age, length, pay, formalities), see our complete guides to the apprenticeship contract and the professionalisation contract.
The apprenticeship contract
It aims at obtaining a diploma or a title registered with the RNCP (from CAP to master's degree). It fits within an initial training pathway.
- Eligibility: mainly 16-29 year-olds (no age limit for people with disabilities or business founders).
- Objective: a state-recognised diploma.
- Duration: from 6 mois à 3 ans (sometimes 4).
- Advantage: income tax exemption up to the annual SMIC, and a hiring incentive for the employer (up to 5 000 €, or even 6 000 € for an apprentice with a disability, for recent contracts).
The professionalisation contract
It targets a professional qualification (diploma, title, CQP or branch-recognised qualification) and falls under continuing education.
- Eligibility: young people aged 16 à 25 ans and job seekers aged 26 ans and over, with no age limit.
- Objective: an operational qualification, often for a career change.
- Duration: generally 6 à 12 mois (up to 24-36 months in certain cases).
- Advantage: higher minimum pay for adults.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Apprenticeship | Professionalisation |
|---|---|---|
| Logic | Initial training | Continuing education |
| Objective | Diploma / RNCP title | Professional qualification |
| Main audience | 16-29 ans | Young people + job seekers (any age) |
| Typical duration | 6 mois à 3 ans | 6 à 12 mois |
| Pay | 27 % à 100 % du SMIC | 55 % à 100 % du SMIC |
How to decide?
For a first diploma, apprenticeship is often the natural choice. For rapid upskilling or a career change, the professionalisation contract is the right fit.
In both cases, the principle is the same: learning a trade in a company while following a training course, with employee status and a salary. To compare exact salaries, read our article understanding your work-study pay and try the pay simulator.
Once you have chosen your contract, start your company search with our work-study listings and our method for finding a company.